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Sunday, February 17, 2013

Oh Valentine tree?



How do you like this tree?
It's in the room of one of our residents, where it's been for over a year.
Her son put it up last Christmas, had it decorated very nicely and she loved it.  She didn't want it taken down after Christmas so he strung a heart garland and called it a valentine tree.  It had a few themes through the year, and has now gone full circle, once again celebrating Christmas and now Valentines day.  She's in a private room so there's room for the tree and she enjoys it, so that's all that matters.
This lady has been through quite a bit in her life, not the least of which was being in a concentration camp in WWII.  She is originally from Austria and was in the camp as a very young girl.
You may notice the flag on the picture next to the tree.  Her son says she always had a flag in her room, so when she woke up in the morning, she was immediately reminded that she was in the United States.
When she was younger, she went to schools and talked about her experiences.  She has dementia now and although she still remembers things, her memory is dimmer and she doesn't talk about it anymore.
It really is amazing to hear some of the stories of our residents.

12 comments:

Terra said...

The lady you describe had a rough life and how good she has the tree she wants in her room, and the American flag and a son to arrange it.

Connie said...

You have an interesting job. Enjoy.

Hootin Anni said...

Beautiful...that's great to know that her son does this for her. Boy, would I ever love to have the opportunity to sit down with her and listen to her stories of her life.

Le monde dÖ said...

It's beatiful! and a kind of tree of joy and hope.

Nancy said...

What a neat idea and isn't it wonderful that he is attentive to her.....I image you have heard so many stories you could write a book.....

Pat said...

THis is so very touching. What a wonderful son she has, I think of so many elderly that are alone. I'm so glad you shared this, it really touches me heart.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful story. I love the tree also.What a wonderful son to do this.
I was in my bank and they turned their Christmas tree into a Valentine tree also.
Thanks for sharing this with us.

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing this. Bless her.

Jenny said...

I love her tree and I love that she loves our beautiful country. God bless her. I have many times been tempted to leave the tree up and decorate it seasonally year-round. Our granddaughters have a small tree in their room that I gave them, with a tiny strand of lights. They hang all kinds of stuff on it.

Beth said...

Wow! What a privilege to know someone who has survived that horrendous time---they can teach us so much!
Such a thoughtful son--a wonderful idea.

Cindy said...

What a great tree! We have a lady who has a 3 foot tree that her family decorates for every holiday but that tree is impressive!

Jean said...

Very, very touching on so many levels. I have tears.